Starting on November 23, no trains will run to, from or through the main station in Geneva for 20 whole hours, as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) carries out major upgrades. Passengers travelling on the two days have been told to prepare for disruption to public transport services and delays to journeys.

No trains running out of Geneva from November 23 to 24

From 7pm on Saturday, November 23 to 3pm on Sunday, November 24, 2024, no trains will run to or from Geneva Cornavin station. As a result, the rail lines between Coppet, Geneva, Geneva Airport, Bellegarde and Annemasse will be closed for 20 hours.

SBB explained that they needed to close the station completely to install a new computerised control system, replacing one that was first installed in 1986. With Geneva station and the regional rail network expected to expand dramatically in the coming decades, the new system will allow for the smooth running of commuter services and long-distance trains between Geneva, Lausanne and other Swiss cities.

Once complete, the new system will be the largest of its kind in Switzerland, controlling 1.500 signals, points, rails and more across the country. The closure will also allow SBB to renew other safety systems at Geneva Cornavin.

How to travel to and from Geneva during the closure

From 7pm on November 23 to 3pm on November 24, travellers will have to use replacement buses and the local tram and bus network to travel around, to and from Geneva. SBB trains between Swiss cities and Geneva will terminate at Nyon, after which a replacement bus will run between Nyon, Geneva and the airport. Those hoping to catch flights using this route are advised to add at least 30 minutes to their journey times.

Those travelling on TGV, SNCF TER and Léman Express services from France will see their trains terminate at Bellegarde, with replacement buses used on the remainder of the route. Léman Express trains from Annemasse will terminate at Lancy Pont-Rouge, after which passengers can continue their journeys by tram.

Anyone travelling within Geneva itself should use local buses and trams. SBB has advised all passengers to check their SBB mobile app regularly or speak to one of the 70 passenger assistants who will be present around the city’s stations to answer any questions.

Geneva platform numbers to change following weekend closure

In a move that will likely confuse many commuters, SBB will also be changing the platform numbers at Geneva station. This is so they can prepare for when the new underground extension to the station is built.

From November 24, platform five will become platform 10, and platforms six, seven and eight will become five, six and seven respectively. 

Thumb image credit: Keitma / Shutterstock.com